I was so close to giving up and removing the single gas lamp in my vintage caravan after finding out that I needed a 'mantle' that is no longer manufactured. After spending hours researching and trawling ebay, camp and caravan shops I decided to move on and accept that I was failing to bring the gas lamp back to life and time perhaps would be better spent on the interior decoration.
A few weeks past (as what usually happens with any project) of nothing much happening. How could I possibly miss this chance of restoring the cosy-glow of a sixties retro gas lamp? I couldn't shake off this niggle and I decided to give it one more go. I'd actually never seen a gas lamp working. My parents owned caravans in the seventies but the lamps were never in use 'just too old-fashioned' back then.
Anyway, back to ebay and my Knight(ess) in shining armour came to the rescue by way of 6 Veritas No.2 Mantles. Part no G73626.
For those of you like me who have never heard of a mantle these are as-rare-as-hens-teeth.
I originally bought the Veritas No. 1 which was too small. The seller was adamant that if it wasn't a No. 1 then it would be the No. 2 no question. I took a chance with another seller and it paid off.
I am now the proud owner of a very retro glowing Sprite 400.
Other sundries came into play... I needed a gas bottle deposit and refill, a gas regulator and jubilee clips. The 6 mantles cost £33.00. Total amount spent - £88.67.
I'm told the smallest of things make me happy...
Not only do I have a retro glow, I have boiling water and toast too!
Today is a good day...
Source: Images - my own. Veritas mantles - Elimayboo Antiques & Collectables. Gas bottle and sundries - TH White's Marlborough Wiltshire.
